Recognition for biotech pioneer

The world’s biggest industrial biotechnology event is to acknowledge one of the industry’s leading lights.

Vonnie Estes will collect the 4th annual Rosalind Franklin Award for Leadership in Industrial Biotechnology at next month’s BIO World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology. The award acknowledges the work of eminent women in science and Vonnie is a deserving recipient having “made numerous contributions to the commercial development of new biotechnologies, creating revolutionary products that are good for people and the planet,” explained Dr Rita Colwell, PhD, President of the Rosalind Franklin Society

Vonnie said: “Scientific discoveries only achieve positive impacts once they are successfully deployed throughout society, and that requires a deep network of people. Throughout my career, I have focused on developing the supply chains necessary to commercialize biotechnology innovations, motivated by a passion to achieve sustainability in industry. I am honored to accept the Rosalind Franklin Award on behalf of the numerous colleagues who have shared that passion.”

Vonnie has led a number of biotech companies raising their profiles internationally and been integral to bringing new products and ideas to the industry.

“Vonnie Estes is an accomplished industry leader with decades of experience commercializing industrial biotechnology innovations and developing emerging companies. She has held key leadership positions in companies, including DuPont, GranBio, Caribou Biosciences, Monsanto, and Syngenta. With this award, BIO hopes to honor Rosalind Franklin’s legacy by recognizing women who make lasting contributions to the field of biotechnology,” added Brent Erickson, executive vice president of BIO’s Industrial & Environmental Section.